Petrochelidon fulva
adult
The Cave Swallow is similar to the Cliff Swallow; distinguishing features include the reddish (not white) forehead and paler throat and face. The sexes are similar. Adults have a dark bluish cap, separated from the white-streaked dark bluish back by a pale reddish collar. This color extends to the cheeks and throat. The forehead is reddish, and the reddish-buff rump contrasts with the square-ended dark tail. The underparts are mostly pale but with darker spots on the undertail. Juveniles are less colorful and less strikingly marked than adults, with a pale buff forehead, grubby-looking nape, and whitish throat.
The Cave Swallow is present as a breeding species, mostly to southern Texas, and mainly from March to August. Small numbers remain in winter, but most head for Central America for the rest of the year. As its name suggest, the Cave Swallow builds mud nests in caves, but also under bridges. It catches insects on the wing and often feeds over water.
FACT FILE
LENGTH 5.5 in (14 cm)
FOOD Insects
HABITAT Open country, cliffs, and gorges
STATUS Locally common summer visitor
VOICE Song includes various twittering notes, and call-like che-wiit phrases
